Coast Guard rescues four Fairbanks men on Hinchinbrook Island

Jul 6th, 2010 · Comments Off on Coast Guard rescues four Fairbanks men on Hinchinbrook Island

KODIAK, Alaska – A Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew, forward deployed to Cordova, rescued four Fairbanks men off a beach in Deer Cove on the west side of Hinchinbrook Island Monday evening.
Justin Bezona, Kary, Tony and Kody Fuller’s 25-foot recreational boat became swamped after a wave reportedly came over the stern of the boat and water entered the fuel tank causing it to become disabled. The men managed to get the boat to shore but it subsequently tipped on its side causing all of their gear to become wet.

The Alaska State Troopers received a cell phone call from Kary stating their situation and requesting assistance. The troopers relayed the information to Coast Guard Sector Anchorage watchstanders who in turn launched the helicopter crew from Cordova.

The rescue helicopter crew arrived on scene about 8:40 p.m. and found the men in good condition. The men were safely transported to Valdez where they were released. They did not require any medical attention.

The vessel is reported to have approximately 140 gallons of fuel on board and grounded on a soft gravel shore. Marine Safety Unit Valdez is investigating the incident.